If you are interested in science and health, fascinated by food, and want to work with individuals and families, a degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences may be right for you. A solid foundation in the sciences, with courses in anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, microbiology, and statistics, prepares students for the in-depth study of food and nutrition.

In their major coursework students learn to critically evaluate food and nutrition information and research while they study.

how the body uses and processes nutrients at the cellular and whole body levels.

the role of food and nutrition throughout the life cycle for optimal health and wellness.

how diet and lifestyle choices can help prevent and manage a variety of diseases.

the principles of food science and food safety.

the role of community and public health nutrition programs and public policy in the wellbeing of our communities.

the problems of hunger and food insecurity in our world today.

the principles of management and business needed for delivering food and nutrition programs and services.

the roles of nutrition professionals in a variety of practice settings.

Many of the major courses develop communications skills by providing students with opportunities to give oral presentations, teach classes, create and present scientific posters, write research papers, learn and practice counseling skills, and develop nutrition education materials as well as personal portfolios. Students also have opportunities for internships, community service, and independent study.

The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences offers three emphases in the Food and Nutritional Sciences major leading to a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree.

The Dietetics emphasisprepares students for application to a supervised dietetics internship program and for a career as a Registered Dietitian. Additional courses in accounting, business, foodservice management, counseling and medical nutrition therapy are a part of this degree. For a printable checklist click here

The Nutrition in Sports and Exercise emphasisstresses the role of food and nutrition for optimal physical performance and for health and wellness. Courses in exercise physiology, exercise science, medical nutrition therapy, and nutrition in sports and exercise are required.
For a printable checklist click here

Major Status Application Due Dates: October 10, January 10, and April 10.

For a minor degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences, click here.
For printable checklist, click here

Careers in Food and Nutrition
The dynamic and diverse field of food and nutrition leads to a variety of career opportunities. Those who progress in the field of dietetics and become Registered Dietitians provide practical food, nutrition and/or management expertise in many settings including hospitals, out-patient clinics, long-term care facilities, medical offices, research centers, schools, sports clubs, fitness centers, and private practice. Registered dietitians also manage food service operations in restaurant, health care, school, and industry settings. Others may work in sales or develop careers as authors or editors of food and nutrition-related print media. Graduates of the SPU Food and Nutrition program have many interesting and fulfilling jobs. Recent employers of our graduates include:

For those interested in further study, the B.S. degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences prepares you for graduate work in public health, food science, nutrition science, clinical nutrition, sports nutrition, culinary arts or other health or food-related fields. Other possibilities include advanced studies in marketing, business education, counseling, or psychology.